VEGAN GARDENING INDIAN RECIPES - Comforting classics from Nishma Shah - The Vegan Society
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2021 Issue 3 VEGAN GARDENING Top tips for beginners INDIAN RECIPES OPEN HEART Comforting classics from Nishma Shah A doctor’s health journey
Editor’s letter and contents
EDITOR’S LETTER
Like many of us, over the past 18 months I turned his own health around later in life. As
took refuge in growing plants. During a time a septuagenarian marathon runner who only
of chaos and confusion, finding moments gained confidence as a swimmer and cyclist in
to notice a spider plant which had grown his 60s, Akil embodies the Vegan and Thriving
its first baby, or a flower on the brink of message and shows just what is possible when
blooming, gave my mental health a little you tune in to what your body needs.
boost. You can also find some incredible Indian
That’s why I’m delighted to share an recipes from Nishma Shah of Shambhu’s Catering
article on veganic gardening for beginners Company. Please do get in touch if you try any
by Danielle James, otherwise known as of them out – don’t forget, the Star Letter prize is
@TheVeganVegGardeners on Instagram. always up for grabs!
Please do email editor@vegansociety.com with
your tips and stories about growing plants – as
well as your photos, of course. Elena Orde, Editor
In this issue we have also included a fascinating
article from Dr Akil Taher, a US physician who
CONTENTS
03 Highlights 27 Nutrition 08
Essential updates on Focusing on bone health
Vegan Society news
06 In the news
The Vegan Society
30 A chat with Bio-D
Our longest-running
in the press trademark holders
08 Veganic gardening
Tips for beginners
32 Volunteers
Volunteer Hub plus
Volunteer of the Season
13
13 Recipes
Three authentic Indian
36 Buy online
VEG 1 is plastic-free
recipes
19 Open heart
Interview with
37 Events
What’s going on
Dr Akil Taher across the UK
22 Membership 38 Shoparound
Including AGM results New products to
look out for 19
25 Fundraising
Our first remote
40 Reviews
A vegan guide and a
challenge event philosophical treatise
Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 1
From the CEO Highlights
Editor Elena Orde Designer Violeta Pereira
Cover image Nat Aubry (@_nataubry_) Print seacourt.net
Staff
FROM THE CEO HIGHLIGHTS
Head of Campaigns, Policy and Research,
Interim CEO
Louise Davies
Head of Communications
Sam Calvert
Director of Business Development
Chantelle Adkins
Head of Operations At The Vegan Society, live events, shows and festivals have previously been a staple
Gurminder Kenth
Research and Policy Advisor of our summer activities. Like last year, this summer is more pared-back in terms of
Amanda Baker
Communications Managers live events than it has been in the past – but rest assured that
Rachel Bowcutt, Lauren Williams
Senior Supporter Services Coordinator
we have many exciting plans to share our messages and
Stephen Sanders campaigns with the public.
Supporter Services Coordinator
Harriet Macintosh Vegan and Thriving, our health and nutrition
Volunteering and Engagement Officer
Kaya Gromocki campaign, is in full swing. We know that concerns
Senior Web Officer
Adam Duncan
around nutrition can be a barrier to many people
Digital Content Officer who would otherwise be interested in going vegan
Jen Jones
Web Officer – so we’re here to bust some myths and share the
Hayley Kinnear
Senior Communications and Campaigns Officer message that we can get everything we need to feel
Elena Orde
Graphic Designer
fantastic, all from a plant-based diet.
Violeta Pereira To mark World Environment Day at the beginning of
Media and PR Officer
Francine Jordan June, we ran a week of sustainability sessions for staff and
Fundraising and Partnerships Manager
Ruby Jones announced new incentives to encourage staff members to choose environmentally-
Campaigns Manager
Mark Banahan friendly travel options and give back to the community via volunteer days. We kicked
Campaigns and Policy Officers
Sabrina Ahmed, Tim Thorpe
this off with a clean-up day in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, just around the corner
Community Network Co-Ordinator from The Vegan Society office.
Rich Hardy
Senior Insight and Policy Officer I am pleased to say that recently we have begun to work with Diverse Matters,
Louisianna Waring
Office Manager a specialist training consultancy, on bettering our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Kat Anderson
Sales and Merchandise Manager
knowledge and practices. We will be working with them over the coming months to
Dave Nicholson improve our recruitment, communications and outreach.
Head of Business Development
Steve Hamon In May we reached an incredible milestone, with 50,000 products registered with
Deputy Trademark Manager
Ella Marshall our trusted Vegan Trademark. Since then, registration numbers have continued to Vegan and Thriving policy changes needed for a transition to plant-based food
Trademark Team Leaders
soar with some very exciting new companies coming on board. You can keep up with production, and the role of vegan organic farming as a
Lisa Williams, Cheryl Pierpoint, Caroline Bolton Our health and nutrition campaign, Vegan and Thriving, shares
Trademark Senior Account Manager all the latest by following @vegantrademark on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. pioneering climate-friendly solution.
Zoë Lomas
the message that we can get everything we need to thrive
Thank you to all who participated in our AGM on 22 May, either by attending The conference was sponsored by The Vegan Society and
Trademark Account Managers from a totally plant-based diet.
Charlotte Adcroft, Alex Markland, Sophie Glenn, Serin Price,
remotely or voting beforehand. You can see the results of voting on page 23. Holding organised by Safe Food Advocacy Europe. It featured talks
Katarzyna Petruk Over the past few months, we have been promoting a new
Trademark Sales Executive
the event remotely allowed more people to join than in previous years. Going and lively panel discussions with MEPs, food policy experts,
Amit Mohan raft of online content, including six creative recipe videos,
Trademark Sales Manager forwards we will run hybrid AGM events, with the option to attend in person or take farming groups and food producers.
Gabriela Chalkia
available at vegansociety.com/thriving. Have you been
part online. Vegan Society CEO Louise Davies highlighted the need to
International Trademark Sales Manager inspired to try out the Falafel Burgers or the Tofu Pancakes
Katharina Eist transition away from animal farming for the EU to meet its
Systems and Information Officer with Plum Sauce yet?
John Andrews climate and environmental ambitions and outlined key policy
Senior Trademark Officer Louise Davies, Interim CEO We have also added some inspirational interviews to the
Natacha Rodrigues changes required.
Business Development Officer Thriving hub, including one with incredible athlete Kate
Sheridan Rudge Strong. At the end of May, Kate took on three
Trademark Account Assistants
Mary Barry, Chloe Edwards, Claire Fittes, Laura Scougall, world record attempts over a 24-hour
Mental wellbeing and veganism
Amelia Wallage, Phaedra Johnson, Kamala Middleton,
Danielle Wood period cycling on a static bike – and she In the past few months, we have shared
Business Development Marketing Manager
Ericka Durgahee
Staff updates smashed all of them! Kate’s records will some excellent blogs relating to mental
Trademark Events and Communications Officer
Rachel Bowcutt and Lauren Williams have joined us in the role of Communications be verified by Guinness over the next wellbeing and veganism. For Mental
Neneh Buswell
Brand Marketing Officer Managers. few weeks. Kate was kind enough Health Awareness Week, Kaya
Nishat Rahman
Trademark Marketing Assistant Amit Mohan has joined us in the role of Trademark Sales Executive. Phaedra to use her attempts to support the Gromocki wrote a piece about
Charis Collier
Business to Business Marketing Officer Johnson, Kamala Middleton and Laura Scougall joined the Business Development Vegan and Thriving campaign, and veganism and anxiety, drawing
Katie Grant
Team as Trademark Account Assistants. we’re delighted that together we on her own experiences with
Business Development Marketing Officer
Beth Dandy raised awareness of what can be Generalised Anxiety Disorder and
Finance Manager
Clare Straughan achieved on a vegan diet. sharing how this intersects with her
Finance Officers
Allan Oakes, Emily Austin Did you spot one of our Vegan vegan lifestyle and beliefs.
Research Officer
and Thriving billboards outside We also shared a number of
Dr Lorna Brocksopp
Dietitians your local Tesco? Our wonderful articles on our Research News page
Heather Russell, Andrea Rymer
Vegan Rights Advocate model Wanausha (pictured on the relating to veganism and wellbeing.
Dr Jeanette Rowley
right), found herself outside her local The blogs examined academic literature
Council
supermarket in Manchester. around mental health and veganism,
Robb Masters (Chair)
Eshe Kiama Zuri (Vice-Chair) and considered how a variety of different
David Gore (Treasurer)
Stephen Walsh, Jenifer Vinell, Salim Akbar, Robb Masters, Grow Green conference lifestyle factors contribute to positive mental
Joel Bravette, Michele Fox, Mellissa Morgan © The Vegan Society
Registered Charity No. 279228 At the beginning of June, we held the second wellbeing. We have plans to examine this topic
The views expressed in The Vegan do not necessarily reflect those of Donald Watson House (England and Wales) and
the Editor or of The Vegan Society Council. Nothing printed should be 34–35 Ludgate Hill 0121 523 1730 SC049495 (Scotland) Registered Grow Green conference. The online event explored the further, and look forward to sharing the results with you.
construed to be The Vegan Society’s policy unless so stated. The society Co. Nos. 01468880 and 12377572
accepts no liability for any matter in the magazine. The acceptance of Birmingham, UK info@vegansociety.com (England & Wales). Printed on
advertisements (including inserts) does not imply endorsement. B3 1EH www.vegansociety.com VAT Registration No. 361 7274 92. recycled paper
2 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 3
Highlights Highlights
International Grants programme care, whilst specifically addressing key nutrition principles
for caterers and looking at medical nutrition for healthcare
The International Grants programme is now active, and runs
professionals.
alongside the existing Vegan Society Grants programme. The
new programme awards grants to projects based in countries
that have a third of the GDP of the UK, or less. In just the first
10 days of the programme being live, the grants panel were
delighted to receive applications from countries including
Jordan, India, Kenya, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Uganda
and Malawi.
Our first grant awarded via the new programme was to
a project in Bujumbura, Burundi. The project seeks to raise
awareness of veganism, animal rights and plant-based
nutrition in the local area.
We have recruited a specialist volunteer to help us ensure
the new programme is as effective as possible. If you also
have expertise in this area and would like to get involved,
please do email volunteer@vegansociety.com.
Catering for Everyone
As part of our Catering for Everyone campaign, we often hear Future Normal sponsors debate
stories from vegans who struggle to receive suitable meals in Future Normal, our animal rights campaign, sponsored a
hospital settings. Many report being given very basic options, debate entitled ‘Humans and Other Animals’ at the online How
We supported Fiji Willets to win her rights case such as a plain jacket potato or a piece of fruit, which does the Light Gets In Festival run by the Institute of Art and Ideas.
not constitute a nutritious meal. Ensuring all menus include The debate featured philosopher, cultural critic and author
vegan options would help guarantee that veganism is given of Aping Mankind Ray Tallis, poet and animal researcher
the same due diligence as other beliefs. Melanie Challenger, farmer and politician Jamie Blackett and
VegAPPG discusses inclusive medicines national Mental Health Week brought up her concerns with
We have therefore worked to put together a CPD Professor of Sociology at Kingston University Kay Peggs. It was
The All Party Parliamentary Group for Vegetarianism and her tutor. She was told that she would fail her course if she
(Continuing Professional Development)-accredited webinar hosted by Myriam Francois.
Veganism brought together healthcare professionals to did not complete the module.
series to support healthcare professionals in improving The panel discussed the hypocrisies in the ways in which
discuss the topic of more inclusive medicine development Jeanette worked with Fiji to submit a formal complaint to
patient outcomes for vegans. The series is structured to humans relate to other animals. A video of the debate is
and labelling. The meeting focused on the issues faced by the college, which was then escalated to the awarding body
give insight on how to provide vegans with person-centred available on iai.tv/video/humans-and-other-animals.
patients and the healthcare professionals responsible for for non-compliance with equality law. The college has now
their care. These include the lack of clear labelling of animal allowed Fiji to complete a more suitable module. Read more
ingredients, the lack of guidance and training for staff on on vegansociety.com/news.
offering support and gaining consent when patients have
concerns over medicine ingredients, and the lack of animal- VEG 1
free alternatives to common medicines. Our vegan multivitamin, VEG 1, has recently been given a
The meeting was chaired by Christina Rees MP, Chair of more sustainable makeover. We’re very pleased to say that
the VegAPPG, and we heard from several guest speakers the affordable and expert-made nutritional supplement now
including Sheetal Ladva, a Medicines Information Pharmacist comes in plastic-free packaging. We have moved away from
and member of the Plant Based Health Professional group. the original plastic tub to a sleek recyclable aluminium tin.
We are following up on this event with communications You can still order VEG 1 in the original orange or blackcurrant
to the Department of Health and other key stakeholders. If flavour, in either three or six-month supplies, over the phone
you have relevant experience as a patient or a healthcare (0121 523 1730) or on vegansociety.com/shop. Members still
professional, please get in touch with us by emailing receive 10% off VEG 1.
VegAPPG@vegansociety.com.
Victory in vegan rights case
Vegan Society Rights Advocate Jeanette Rowley was
instrumental in supporting a student win a rights case against
her college.
Fiji Willetts is studying for a qualification in Animal
Management which was advertised in the college prospectus
as being ‘great for people who love animals’. After enrolling,
Fiji discovered she had to pass a module on Farm Husbandry,
the branch of agriculture that focuses on raising animals
for meat, milk, eggs or other products. Fiji, who had been
vegan for four years, started suffering with anxiety and during The ‘Humans and Other Animals’ debate discussed animal rights
4 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 5
News
IN THE NEWS
Vegan rights Back in February, The Vegan Society signed an open letter
asking EU Council Members to rethink plans to introduce
Arguably the biggest media story of the last couple of
the ban. While CEO Louise Davies was quoted in Vegan Food
months centred around an 18-year-old vegan student who
and Living, Food Ingredients First and Totally Vegan Buzz
was facing discrimination at college (see page 4).
to name a few, Media and PR Officer Francine Jordan went
Our press release about Fiji went viral with hundreds of
on Ireland’s Flirt FM to discuss the results and the positive
mentions across both mainstream and vegan press and social
impact it will have on the plant-based sector.
media, landing write-ups in Metro, Daily Mail, The Mirror, The
Telegraph and BBC News Online. Fiji was also interviewed
by BBC Bristol and BBC Points West – her local radio and TV
Vegan Trademark
stations – while the case was also debated on Channel 5’s Every month the number of Vegan Trademark mentions
The Jeremy Vine Show. in the media is on the up, with April and May smashing
all previous records and landing more than 150 individual
Lockdown diets mentions. The top stories dominating the headlines included
Burger King’s decision to register several products with
As the national lockdown continued to dominate the
the Vegan Trademark, including the Vegan Royale, The
headlines, we decided to repeat our 2020 survey about
Body Shop confirming they will be fully certified globally
changing consumer habits during the pandemic. The results
by 2030, Just Love Food Company’s launch of Archie –
were extremely positive, with one in four Brits revealing they
the vegan version of the classic caterpillar cake – and the
have actively cut back on some form of animal products
Vegan Trademark hitting a huge milestone in registering its
since the first lockdown. While 20% said they have reduced
50,000th product.
the amount of meat they are eating, 12% say they’ve
We were also cheering from the sidelines when Vegan
minimised their intake of eggs and dairy.
Trademark holder Rebecca Birtwell, the founder of bECOsy
The press release proved to be a huge success with a
– the first animal companion bed to be registered with the
dozen write ups – including in national outlets Plant Based
trademark – appeared on Channel 4’s Steph’s Packed Lunch.
News, Vending International and Vegconomist. Meanwhile,
Senior Insight and Policy Officer Louisianna Waring discussed
the incredible findings on BBC Leeds with Sanchez Payne,
Double trouble
and also appeared on BBC World News to talk through the And finally, just weeks after Campaigns Manager Mark
results with Sally Bundock. Banahan appeared on talkRADIO to debate Ethical Butcher
co-founder Glen Burrows, Campaigns and Policy Officer Tim
Dairy words ban Thorpe was invited on talkRADIO to debate... Glen Burrows.
At the end of May we had cause to celebrate again when Tim put forward a fantastic case for veganism and animal
the European Parliament rejected controversial Amendment rights, leaving the show’s audience with plenty of food for
171, which would have seen ‘dairy words’ such as ‘creamy’ thought.
or ‘alternative to’ banned from several plant-based products.
6 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021
Feature
VEGANIC
GARDENING
Danielle James from The Vegan
Veg Gardeners shares her top tips
for beginners.
Since the Victorians started importing exotic plants into
the country, gardening has been incredibly popular. But
still, most gardeners can’t place how working with plants
isn’t necessarily vegan. Tell someone that you’re a vegan
gardener and you’ll probably receive a slightly bemused
expression in return.
So what is ‘veganic gardening’? It is the use of vegan
and organic methods within our green space. Being vegan
denotes that we strive to cause no harm. In a gardening
context this means no use of animal waste to ‘fertilise’ our
land; no chemical weedkillers and definitely no killing of
garden ‘pests’.
The Vegan Organic Network explains that veganic food is
“Grown in an organic way with only plant-based fertilisers,
encouraging functional biodiversity so pesticides are not
necessary. No [harmful] chemicals, no GMO and no animal
by products are in any part of the chain.” And you know
what? I think this all sounds pretty good!
Veganic gardening is the use
of vegan and organic methods
within our green space.
Green beginnings
As a child in the 1980s I remember following my
grandparents around garden centres in Hertfordshire and
London. At that age, I mainly enjoyed the ride in the trolley
and getting my dungarees dirty – although I must say that
I have totally re-embraced the dungaree look as an adult!
My family have always been keen gardeners and when I
look back now, the one smell from my childhood that stays
with me is that of tomato leaves after watering.
After university I discovered a love of cooking and, in
turn, wanted to know where my ingredients came from.
In 2014 I went vegan overnight and my love of gardening
continued to grow. During my first year of veganism,
I learned about the horrors contained within our food
chain. My lifestyle completely changed, and I soon made
connections between this and my passion for gardening.
Flash forward to 2021, and my fiancé Jon and I have had
an allotment for six years. We have a small microgreen and
mushroom business, and I’m retraining in horticulture. Our
market garden dream is starting to look like a reality.
8 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Illustration by Rae Likes Froot instagram.com/raelikesfroot Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 9
Title of Page Feature
First steps a massive decline. Build an eco-system and watch it thrive.
Don’t try to be a controlling force within your garden – aim to
Starting your own vegan garden can be easy. It all starts with
be an overseer. Watch and observe.
a seed, or you can even buy a plant or two. Dipping your toe
into gardening can be like the first steps to becoming vegan. SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE
No garden? No problem
The questions to ask yourself are: “Did someone get harmed
Now, all of the above information is assuming that you
VEGAN TRADEMARKED
in the making of this product?” and “Am I causing harm
by carrying out this action?” have your own green haven to play with. What if GARDENING FINDS
Plants are simple – they need good soil, you don’t? Indoor gardening has exploded with
water and sunshine. The key to good #plantshelfie photos taking over Instagram. Garden wipes, organic plant feed and
soil is good compost. For vegans this Growing indoors is just as easy, and all
organic tomato feed
can be the first hurdle. The majority of the above ideas can be used in an
from Wilko (wilko.com)
of shop-bought composts don’t indoor space. For a bit of inspiration, I
suggest James Wong (@botanygeek)
display their ingredients and A range of specialist organic plant
for some incredible indoor
when you delve deeper, they foods including Bloom feed, Leaf nutrients and
are often bulked out with gardening ideas and tutorials.
Root stimulant from BAC (BAConline.co.uk/vegan-
well-rotted farmyard manure, Often, buying grown certified-products)
‘Blood, Fish and Bone’ and houseplants means you can’t be
peat. Peat is a non-renewable sure they were grown veganically. Liquid fertiliser, soil conditioner and
resource which plays a My advice is to buy plant cuttings
online. They are most likely
compost
massive part in sequestering
started off in water and you know from Natural Grower (naturalgrower.co.uk)
carbon within our peat-bog
environments. However, you that you can provide a vegan
can find some composts which environment for them when they Compost
arrive. from Fertile Fibre
are registered with the Vegan
If an indoor jungle doesn’t work for (fertilefibre.com/compost/vegan-composts)
Trademark (see page 11).
With patience comes a more you but growing your own food does,
rewarding method – home get your name down on an allotment Home and garden sanitiser
waiting list. You can find a list of local for use on patios, paths, decking, driveways,
composting. Simply mixing your
allotments on your council website. We need greenhouses, garden waste bins and more, from
household veg scraps with an equal amount
to protect these community spaces, which are also Bio-D (biod.co.uk)
of brown material (such as shredded paper, wood
chip or cardboard) and frequently turning will create green pathways, as they are fast being transformed into
some beautiful vegan compost and provide a use for your land for housing as councils sell them off. Gardeners’ hand cream
Alternatively, for something small, you can try your hand at from Elixirs of Life (elixirsoflife.co.uk)
kitchen waste.
Once you have your compost sorted, it’s as easy as growing microgreens. Soak some seed overnight, place them
planting a seed (season depending), watering and waiting on damp vegan compost (Fertile Fibre is ideal for this) and Gardeners’ balm
cover for a few days. Put them in light and you could harvest from Silvan skincare (silvanskincare.com) and Holistix
patiently for the first sprout. If your garden is fed every year
within two weeks – it’s that easy! herbs (holistixherbs.com)
with fresh compost, your soil will have enough nutrients for
your plants to thrive. Honestly, your plants don’t need to be
fed with products such as ‘Blood, Fish and Bone’ or eggshells Green benefits
– feed the soil and the plants will feed themselves. A person Now more than ever it is so important to learn skills that help
of interest for further reading is Charles Dowding who us thrive on our own. We should be encouraged to grow our
promotes the ‘No Dig’ method of gardening. own food, look after our green spaces and ensure that our
children are gaining this knowledge too.
Encouraging wildlife Gardening is often not lucrative, but it is fundamental
Dipping As your garden grows, you will find that wildlife will grow
with it. Yes, you will see more bees, birds and butterflies as
to our wellbeing. Firstly, we need to grow food in order to
survive. Secondly, the benefit to our mental health when we
your toe into your micro eco-system takes on its own personality. But you are outside is incredible. If I can encourage more people to
grow some veganic food
gardening can be will also see the less desired aphids, slugs and hungry larvae.
In a non-vegan garden, this is when the pest sprays come or take some time outside
like the first steps out. In an organic garden, chemical-free products are used to slow down their pace THE VEGAN ORGANIC
of life, then I will be a very
to becoming
to kill pests.
So what do we do as vegans? We can adjust our happy, dungaree-clad vegan
NETWORK
gardener!
vegan environment to encourage more wildlife. Provide ground
cover for ladybirds over winter or hang bird feeders to
The Vegan Organic Network (VON) is an education
charity established in 1996. It is the only organisation in
encourage birds to graze in your space. Build a pond (even @theveganveggardeners the UK solely working for food to be grown the veganic
in a washing up bowl) to encourage frogs, which will rein in theveganveggardeners.com way. Visit veganorganic.net to see their fantastic
your slugs. Put a ground level hole in your fence to create Please send in pictures of gardening advice webpages, learn about their Save Our
a green highway for our hedgehog friends, who are sadly in your veganic harvests to Wildlife video competition and learn about the annual
editor@vegansociety.com Vegan Organic Fest.
Rescue chicken Evie exploring the veggie patch
10 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 11
INCREDIBLE
INDIAN RECIPES
from Nishma Shah, Vegan Cookery
Educator and Founder of Shambhu’s
(shambhus.uk)
Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 13
Recipes Recipes
BAKED ONION
BHAJIAS WITH
MINTY RAITA (Image on page 13) VEGETABLE PULAO
Makes 12 Serves 2
This recipe is free from wheat and nuts and contains no added sugar. This recipe is free from wheat, gluten, soya and nuts and contains no
added sugar.
Ingredients Directions Ingredients Directions
For the onion bhajias Halve the peeled onions, then slice the halves to produce semi-circular 150 g uncooked brown rice Wash the rice twice, using approximately 300 ml of fresh water each
200 g white onion slices. Separate out the half-rings and put them into a mixing bowl. Wash 100 g onions (~1 regular onion) time. Discard the water, and add a third round of 300 ml of fresh water.
100 g gram (chickpea) flour and finely chop the coriander sprigs. Wash the fresh thyme, then remove 4 sprigs coriander (for decoration) Let the rice soak in the water for 20 minutes.
2 tbsp oil and finely chop the leaves. The stalks will not be needed. 1 tbsp oil Peel and finely dice the onion into pieces less than 3 mm across. Finely
1 tsp dried thyme leaves, or equivalent Add all of the ingredients, apart from the water and baking powder, to 3 x 1-inch shards of cinnamon chop both the leaves and stalks of the coriander sprigs.
amount of fresh thyme leaves a bowl. If you’re unsure how much salt to use, try 1 tsp. Leave the mixture 5 cloves Add the oil to a large frying pan which has a lid, or something suitable
4 sprigs coriander for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200°C, and line a baking 2 star anises to cover it later on. Heat the oil on medium heat. With the exception of
2 tbsp lime juice tray. ½ tsp cumin seeds the turmeric, add all the spices and the optional curry leaves. Next, add
1 tsp cumin powder While you are waiting, wash and very finely dice the cucumber. Wash ½ tsp chilli flakes the finely diced onions and cashew nuts. Cook until the cashew nuts start
½ tsp turmeric and very finely chop the mint leaves. Mix all of the raita ingredients 50 g cashew nuts turning golden and the onion pieces become translucent.
½ tsp chilli flakes together and store in the fridge. 100 g petits pois (or garden peas) Drain away the water that the rice has been soaking in. Next add the
¼ tsp ground black pepper Once 20 minutes have elapsed, add 2 tbsp of water to the mixture and ¼ tsp turmeric powder petits pois (or garden peas) and the rice, followed by the turmeric. Use a
Salt to taste mix it in. The batter must have the consistency of a very thick liquid, like 500 ml water wooden spoon to gently stir the rice in, so that the rice grains become
~5 tbsp water treacle, and it must be thick enough to hold the onion pieces together. Salt to taste coated with the oil, spices and the other ingredients.
¼ tsp baking powder Add more water until you achieve this consistency. Then add the baking ½ lime (~2 tbsp) Add the 500 ml of water and some salt (according to your taste
powder and mix thoroughly. 5 curry leaves (optional) preference). Cover the pan with its lid/cover and let the pulao rice cook
For the minty raita Scoop up some batter with a spoon and press it into a tablespoon, on medium heat for 20 minutes, or until the grains of rice are soft.
which will act as a mould. Then gently urge it from the tablespoon onto Once the rice is cooked, give the pulao a good stir and keep the pan
200 g plain unsweetened soya yoghurt
the lined baking tray, and gently flatten it to produce a rough circular covered. Garnish with the finely chopped coriander and serve hot.
50 g cucumber
piece, about 3–5cm in diameter. Repeat until all of the batter is used up,
¼ tsp split mustard seeds
being careful to minimise the space between each bhajia, so that they all Tip Minty vegan raita (page 14) is a delicious accompaniment to this
20 mint leaves
fit onto the baking tray. vegetable pulao rice dish.
Salt to taste
Place the baking tray into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes.
The baked onion bhajias should have a lovely golden colour. Serve with
the minty raita.
14 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 15
Recipes
CREAMY AUBERGINE
AND PEANUT CURRY
Serves 2
This recipe is free from wheat, gluten, soya (depending on vegan cream
used), and can be made sugar-free.
Ingredients Directions
100 g white onion (~ 1 regular onion) Peel the onion and finely dice it into pieces smaller than 3 mm across.
50 g red peanuts Roughly crush the whole peanuts using a pestle and mortar.
1 large aubergine (~400 g) Wash the aubergine. You can check if the aubergine is bitter at this
400 g tomatoes stage by tasting a small piece, including some of the skin. If it tastes
4 sprigs coriander for garnishing bitter, try to find another aubergine that is not bitter-tasting. Then halve
1 tbsp oil the aubergine, leaving the crown on. While firmly holding the crown, slit
1 tsp black mustard seeds the aubergine into three equal parts and then chop it into approximately
5 fenugreek seeds (optional) ½-inch wide pieces. Store the aubergine pieces in a bowl of water to
1 tsp cumin seeds prevent them turning brown.
3 curry leaves (optional) Roughly chop the tomatoes and pulp them using a blender or hand-
300 ml water blender. Finely chop both the leaves and stalks of the coriander sprigs.
2 tsp coriander and cumin powder Add the oil to a large frying pan which has a lid, or something suitable
1 tsp turmeric to cover it later on. Heat the oil on medium heat. To the heated oil,
½ teaspoon chilli flakes add the mustard, fenugreek and cumin seeds. When the mustard seeds
10 g jaggery (optional) sizzle, immediately add the curry leaves, diced onions and crushed
100 ml vegan cream peanuts. Cook on medium heat until the onions soften and the peanuts
Salt to taste become a toasted golden colour.
Drain the water from the stored aubergine pieces and add the
Tip Jaggery is an unrefined sugar found in aubergine to the pan. Add 200 ml fresh water. Cover the pan and leave
some health food stores or Indian grocers. to cook on medium heat until the aubergine (including skin) is soft.
You can substitute it with dark brown, This could take several minutes. Check if the pieces are soft enough by
demerara or muscovado sugar. seeing if a sharp knife can easily pierce the skin and flesh.
Add the pulped tomatoes, coriander and cumin powder, turmeric,
chilli flakes and jaggery (optional). Leave to simmer until the tomatoes
are cooked, then mix in the vegan cream. You can add the remaining
100 ml water if the curry is becoming too dry.
Taste the curry and add salt. Garnish it with finely chopped coriander,
and serve hot.
Tip This curry is delicious on its own or served with plain rice, roti or
vegan naan.
Food photography by Hannah Hossack-Lodge domesticgothess.com
16 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 17Health
OPEN HEART
Dr Akil Taher on his journey from heart bypass surgery to marathons and beyond
I’m a practising physician in the US, and had a stents angioplasty. This involves getting tiny
US. I came to the US from tubes inserted into your arteries to keep them open.
India pretty late in life – in my You would have thought that I would change my life after
40s. Trying to achieve the this, but no. Somehow, I was not ready. I was depressed.
American dream led me to I already had so many medical problems – diverticulitis,
a reckless pursuit of success sinusitis … I would get bronchitis every year. It was a standing
and fame. I let my career joke in my clinic. If a patient came to me and said, “I’ve got
rob me of my ability to lead a this, Doc,” I would most likely say, “Don’t worry mate, I have it
healthy life. I worked hard, and too!”
was great with my patients.
But I was paying scant attention Open heart surgery
to my health, whether physical or
The stents failed, and at age 61 I had open heart surgery. This
mental, to my own self, my family and my friends.
was my reflection point. I was tired of leading the life that I
was. I knew that I could continue to live a cautious, mediocre,
Standard American Diet sedentary life, as I’d seen in most patients after a heart bypass
I was a lover of rich, unhealthy food. The so-called ‘Standard surgery. Or I could change my lifestyle to incorporate healthy
American Diet’, very aptly known as the SAD diet. All of eating habits, meditation, yoga and exercise. I could have
my meals had to include animal products, and I was also a retired and sat in my rocking chair and lived through my
couch potato. Exercise was not in my vocabulary. The only children and grandchildren, waiting for the inevitable. But I
exercise I got was for my eye muscles, seeing people run wanted to make it an opportunity.
in the park. So, it was no surprise when heart disease came On my way into my bypass surgery I said to the nurses, “If
knocking at my door at the age of 56. all goes well, I’m going to run a half marathon.” They laughed
I was in London visiting a friend, and we were walking in at me, and I don’t blame them! Maybe they thought I was
Hyde Park. Every four minutes I would get a chest pain. And addled with the anesthesia. But after my surgery, I got on the
then I would wait for a while and it would disappear. This is treadmill just a few days later and I started taking small steps.
typical angina, not a heart attack. I flew straight back to the
Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 19Health Advertisement
Meditation in motion or a yak with me, and I refused. They insisted I take oxygen
with me, and I refused. I’ve gone on to do the Chicago
Those first few runs were frightful. I was so fearful. But I
marathon, and the Mumbai marathon.
started small, doing a little 1 km jog, and then I fell in love
I took on a triathlon, even though I previously wasn’t a
with running alone. A lot of people say you need a running
confident swimmer or cyclist. Where I grew up in Mumbai
partner, but running alone to me is like meditation in motion.
there were only five swimming pools, so where could I learn?
Looking at the trees and the birds chirping.
I loved being challenged by this, and I came second in my
Seven months later and I was in Nashville for my first
age group.
marathon. There are no hills in my small town, but when I
One of my proudest achievements was summitting Mount
arrived I saw that it was quite hilly. I said to myself – just enjoy
Kilimanjaro, which stands at 19,000 feet.
The final puzzle piece
At this point I was eating more healthily, but I would always
eat a large piece of chicken before and after a race. It used to
take me four or five days to recover after a long race. I said
to myself – what is missing? And it was my diet. So I became
vegan about seven years ago.
My recovery times improved dramatically. I did a 100-
mile bike race, and at the end I heard from my clinic that a
doctor had reported sick for the next day. So I went back
home, slept for five or six hours, got up the next morning and
worked a 10 hour shift like nothing had happened.
I want to share the message
that it’s never too late to start
taking care of yourself. I’m 73,
and I always joke with people
that I am 13 years old. I got my
life back at the age of 61. And
I’m going to behave like that no
matter whether people like it or
not.
it. I even took a beer from people handing them out. And I Read Open Heart by Dr Akil Taher
finished the race in three and a half grueling hours. Visit vegansociety.com/thriving
Since that, nothing has ever stopped me. I’ve climbed for healthy recipes and more
Mount Kailash in Tibet. They insisted I should take a donkey inspirational stories
20 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 21Membership
MEMBERSHIP
• 20% off your first order at GreenBox (GreenBox stocks Contact membership@vegansociety.com if you would like
a range of supplements, oils, skin and body products) to sign up to the Members’ Roundup.
greenbox.co.uk
• 10% off at Owl and Bee (an ethical brand of cosmetics) AGM 2021
owlbee.eu On 22 May, The Vegan Society held its Annual General
Letters • 10% off at The Vegan Candy Man (vegan sweets Meeting, chaired by the Chair of The Vegan Society’s Board
pouches) thevegancandyman.com of Trustees, Robb Masters. With a quorum of socially-
Veganism and videogames • 15% off at TofuBud (tofu presses) tofubud.com distanced staff and trustees at our offices in Ludgate Hill, and
I have just read the article by Lucas Vially (Veganism and All member discounts can be found in The Members’ Area all other members attending online via Zoom, this was our
Videogames: Issue 3, 2020). Great stuff! of our website at vegansociety.com/my-account/shop- most widely attended AGM in recent history (undoubtedly
Those interested could try Banished by Shining Rock discounts. boosted by online access).
Software. It is a village-building PC game with no warring Do you have any ideas on how we can improve the On the advice of the Charity Commission and the society’s
clans, tribes or countries. It is based on the survival of the discount list? Contact us at membership@vegansociety.com lawyers (Bates Wells), the meeting opened with a motion for
community. Bearing in mind the age range and size of or on 0121 523 1730. adjournment. However, after much discussion, this motion
the worldwide gaming community, this could be another Are you a business owner who would like to offer a failed and the meeting continued.
communication media for the movement. Games have discount to our members? Contact us at Six candidates had stood for three spaces on the Board
great potential for vegan development in learning and discount@vegansociety.com or apply online at of Trustees (Council) in advance of the AGM. Incumbent
entertainment, for all ages. John vegansociety.com/your-business/discount-list. trustees Robb Masters and Jenifer Vinell were re-elected,
where they were joined by new trustee Mellissa Morgan.
Insight panel Council motions were successfully passed on the
Star Letter Have you joined our Vegan Insights Panel? We are looking for appointment of auditors, the setting of the auditors’ fees, and
I’m a vegan and have been a member of vegan volunteers from the UK to help us conduct in-house updates to the society’s Articles to facilitate online or ‘hybrid’
The Vegan Society for four years. Here are consumer research by answering online surveys. The surveys AGMs in future (i.e. those that are both physical and online
some of my zero-waste tips. are used in two ways – firstly, to conduct our own research simultaneously). A members’ motion on the establishment
I use the free Olio app to share and get free things looking into various aspects of veganism. Secondly, to help of a working group for elderly vegan issues was also
from other users. These items would otherwise have businesses that sell vegan products to understand their successfully passed.
gone to waste. I have had various amazing things audience. For each survey you answer, you will be in with While Council motions on the use of an independent
for free like rice, pasta, canned and frozen food, dry a chance of winning a £100 voucher from TheVeganKind arbitrator for appeals, and term limits for trustees achieved a
legumes and beans, fresh veggies and clothes. I am supermarket. Visit vegansociety.com/insights-panel for more majority of votes in each case (i.e. a little over 60%), these did
also a Food Waste Champion with Olio. I organised information. not receive the 75% threshold required to update our Articles.
volunteers to redistribute surplus breads and pastry, Similarly, there were majority votes for setting an age limit on
which were all vegan. I also redistribute things that Members’ newsletter voting of 16 (72.51%) and 14 (50.63%) but these did not reach
other people might find hard to give away. For Have you signed up for our monthly members’ newsletter the 75% threshold.
instance, I cycled 7 km to collect 1 kg of lavender and yet? The newsletter gives members an opportunity to The Treasurer presented the Annual Report and Accounts
shared it with 15 people! keep up to date with society news, member exclusive and took questions from attendees. Trustees and senior
I also cut open tubes of toothpaste to get extra competitions and discounts. staff addressed other written questions from members, and
uses from it, buy items from reduced price sections Most recent competition prizes have included a stunning additional oral questions from those in attendance.
and I have never bought a plastic bag in 25 years. But Oxford Clay vegan ceramic vase, a selection of Hot The meeting closed with the Chair extending thanks to all
still there is lots more I could do. In some parts of the Chocolate Mallow Bombs from Freedom Mallows and a staff, members, and volunteers.
world, the person growing food can’t afford to eat GreenScents spring cleaning set. During July you can win A full breakdown of the AGM voting results is available in
it themselves. So I have a lot of respect for food. A a case of delicious Northern Bloc ice cream and August the Members’ Area of the website, or you can contact us by
tomato is not just a fruit – it is the result of hard labour will see Friendly Soap offering a prize bundle. Enter here: phone or post.
from people and the planet. vegansociety.com/my-account/extras/member-only-
Satya competitions.
Congratulations Satya, who won the full range of LemonAid
and ChariTea drinks for their letter.
The Star Letter winner for Issue 4 will receive a box of
snacks from Sankofa Snacks. The box includes two packs of
each flavour of their six African-inspired snacks. See the range
at sankofasnacks.com.
Discounts
In return for supporting The Vegan Society and our
campaigns, we offer our members 10% off our multivitamin
VEG 1 (now newly launched in plastic-free packaging)
and over 130 third-party discounts. These include 10% off
at Holland & Barrett and 50% off Vegan Food and Living
magazine. Our latest discounts include: The Star Letter winner for Issue 4 will receive a box of Sankofa Snacks
22 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 23Advertisement Fundraising
VEGAN AND THRIVING CHALLENGE
Keeping active and raising funds for The Vegan Society
Over the last year and a half, millions found themselves with and you will be added to a supportive Facebook group
a lot more time on their hands. Some of us got to know our with others who are taking on a challenge. You’ll even get
gardens better and many picked up a new hobby. Exercise an exclusive, eco-friendly Vegan and Thriving medal upon
was a real comfort to a lot of us, providing structure and completion.
boosting our wellbeing. During the strictest periods of By taking part and raising funds you will be helping the
lockdown, when we were only permitted to go outside for vegan movement to thrive. We will use the funds raised to
essential travel or to exercise, the focus on keeping active to support our charitable objectives, which includes providing
stay healthy was really apparent. expert advice and support for people like Flora.
Exercise is such an important part of everyday life, not only Flora contacted us when she wasn’t sure if her newly
to keep your body healthy but also to keep your mind active. vegan teenage daughter was getting all of the nutrients she
As Kate Strong, vegan world champion athlete says, “Keeping needed. She says, “I contacted The Vegan Society on behalf
active clears my mind and lets me focus on what’s important, of my daughter, who is 15. The expert advice and clear, easy-
as well as putting a smile on my face.” to-follow-guidance from Heather the Dietitian has put my
mind at rest and ensured that my daughter has the optimum
Live life to the fullest diet.”
We know that, with a little planning and nutritional
knowledge, we can all thrive on a vegan diet. The Vegan and Challenge accepted
Thriving campaign is all about sharing this message far and To register to take part in our Vegan and Thriving Challenge,
wide – we want the world to know that vegans can be active keep an eye on our social media channels and newsletters
and healthy, and live life to the fullest. for more information or contact us using the information
This is why we are really excited to have created the Vegan below.
and Thriving Challenge. This is the first event of its kind If you’re keen to get back to physical events, the good
and thanks to social media, people will be able to take part news is that organised challenges will likely be taking place
virtually from all over the country. throughout September and October. To see a list of the
The challenge will be accessible to all ages and a broad events you could take part in, please visit vegansociety.com/
range of abilities, with different options available based take-action/raise-funds or contact us using the information
on your interests and current levels of activity. We have below.
developed a quiz, which will be available from the beginning To find out more or send us any comments please contact
of September, to help you decide which challenge to go Ruby on 0121 728 5841 or ruby.jones@vegansociety.
for. We’ll provide tips and advice on training and fundraising,
24 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 25Nutrition
SMALL
HAND BATCH BONE HEALTH
MADE Anandas
Marshmalloo
FOR
ARTISAN GROWN
PRODUCER UPS!
EPIC-Oxford Study Combining these protein sources with nutrient-rich
grains such as wild rice, amaranth, buckwheat and quinoa
20%
In November 2020, EPIC-Oxford researchers released results
can provide a well-balanced, protein-rich meal, particularly
from a large-scale study, showing increased rates of bone
useful for fuelling an active lifestyle. Some activities help
fractures among vegans in the UK. This paper considers a
WHEAT
to keep our bones strong, such as muscle strengthening
number of factors, including calcium, vitamin D, protein,
activities like weightlifting and higher impact activities like
vitamin B12, activity and body mass index (BMI). Also,
GLUTEN
jumping and skipping.
previous EPIC-Oxford research has suggested that vitamin A,
Vitamin K is involved in the process of maintaining and
OFF
zinc and selenium deserve attention when planning a vegan
NUTS
regenerating bone tissue. Sources of vitamin K are not hard
diet.
to find in a vegan diet, and include green leafy vegetables
Your first
It is unclear what caused higher fracture rates in this group
DAIRY
such as spinach, kale and broccoli.
of vegans and more research is required before we can draw
Some reports suggest that overconsumption of vitamin
firm conclusions about vegan bone health. However, this
purchase GELATINE
A can have adverse effects on bone health, however this is
finding gives us an opportunity to look at potential factors
thought to be from over-use of supplements as opposed
associated with increased bone fractures, and how we can
EGG
to food sources. Ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin A
WWW. advocate vegan health through well-planned diets and
healthy lifestyle choices, optimising bone health for present
from food sources can help to maintain bone health – for
example, you could include sweet potato, carrots, spinach or
AVAILABLE FROM and future generations.
butternut squash in your daily diet.
The EPIC-Oxford paper found higher fracture rates in
vegans with lower BMI. Maintaining or working towards a
Bone health of vegans
& GOOD INDEPENDENT
healthy weight can help us to look after our bones. Also,
VIPVEGAN
When it comes to bone health, two nutrients that receive BMI does not consider muscle health and it is possible that
HEALTHFOOD STORES particular attention are calcium and vitamin D. Vitamin D is vegans with lower BMI may have poorer muscle strength,
ATCHECKOUT
required to regulate calcium and phosphate balance to keep which can increase fracture risk.
bones healthy and strong. Sunlight is our main source of
vitamin D, and UK public health guidance recommends that Take home tips
people supplement their daily diets with 10 micrograms of
• Eat at least two calcium-rich foods daily
vitamin D between October and March as a minimum.
• Supplement vitamin D from October to March as a
The UK target for calcium is 700 mg a day, and it is
minimum
recommended that everyone’s daily diets contain at least
• Include dietary sources of vitamin A and vitamin K daily
two rich sources. A ‘rich source’ of calcium is one with high
• Include quality proteins at each meal
calcium content and good absorbability, such as fortified
• Aim to maintain or work towards a healthy BMI
alternatives to milk and yoghurt (organic versions will not be
• Include muscle strengthening and higher impact
fortified), calcium-set tofu, fortified ready oats and soya and
exercises in your routine
wii loveDerbyshire
linseed bread fortified with extra calcium.
For information about vegan nutrition, check out the
Optimal protein intake benefits bone health when
resources at vegansociety.com/nutrition. For well-balanced
accompanied by an adequate intake of calcium, and this type
from
vegan recipes, head over to vegansociety.com/thriving.
of food can be a good source of essential minerals such as
iron and zinc. Therefore, quality proteins such as chickpeas,
lentils, tofu, shelled hemp seeds, garden peas and edamame Andrea Rymer, Dietitian
beans should be included in meals.
Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 27Nutrition
Not only is this recipe an excellent source of quality plant
protein, it also provides two thirds of your daily calcium
needs – a perfect combination for prime bone health!
VEGAN ‘FISHCAKES’
TOFU TACOS serves
serves 4
4
(photo on the right)
and oil together. Take the block of tofu and
Ingredients
remove excess water by patting it dry. Grate
For the sour cream the tofu into the marinade, mix and coat well.
120 g calcium-fortified soya yoghurt Heat a pan and fry the minced marinated tofu until
1 lime, juiced browned. Drain and wash the kidney beans and add
1 tsp nutritional yeast flakes to the pan along with the chopped tomatoes and heat
For the tacos through.
1 tsp smoked paprika In a separate pan, lightly fry the onions and peppers
1 tsp ground cumin in oil.
1 tsp chilli powder Heat the tacos in a preheated oven for 5–6 minutes
4 garlic cloves, crushed until warm and crisp.
Black pepper, to taste Fill the tacos with the cooked mixture and top with
1 tbsp rapeseed oil peppers, onions, sour cream and chopped coriander.
1 x 400 g block of firm calcium-set tofu
1 x 400 g tin of kidney beans, washed and drained
1 x 400 g tin of chopped tomatoes Nutrition tips
1 medium white onion, sliced • Calcium-set tofu and fortified soya yoghurt are
2 bell peppers, deseeded and sliced into strips some of the richest calcium sources you can get from
8 x taco shells a plant-based diet.
1 bunch of coriander, chopped • Consider adding smashed avocado or a chunky salsa
for some extra veg.
Directions
For the sour cream, mix the soya yoghurt, lime juice Recipe provides
and nutritional yeast together. kcal 407 fat 14 g sat fat 2.7 g fibre 11 g protein 23 g
Make a marinade for the tofu by mixing paprika, salt 0.54 g mg calcium 450
cumin and chilli powder, crushed garlic, black pepper
Photography by Hannah Hossack-Lodge domesticgothess.com
28 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021Trademark Advertisement
30 YEARS OF THE VEGAN TRADEMARK
The sunflower mark has been reassuring customers for 30 years – and UK-based
cleaning products company Bio-D has been with us since the very beginning.
How many members of staff did you start with in testing new formulations to make sure they reflect our ethos
1989? and key values.
We started with just one member of staff, the founder of We have also recently announced the launch of
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Atkin, joined as the second employee seven years later in available to customers. The update includes our new Plum
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We now have 49 team members at Bio-D working across scent to refresh the fan favourite.
a wide range of roles and disciplines to get our products on It is great to see customers becoming more interested in
the shelves. and dedicated to reducing their plastic use. We provide refill
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Tell us about how the pandemic has affected the customers can fill their own containers at the store. We’ve
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As a business we have grown significantly, especially over the
Tell us about the decision to register with the Vegan
last five years. Though 2020 was a difficult year, we saw a
Trademark
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a testament to all of the hard work put in by the team during We first signed up for the Vegan Trademark back in 1990. We
the pandemic. were surprised and delighted to hear that Bio-D is officially
Our number of stockists has also increased by 6.8%
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with Bio-D’s ethics and beliefs around animal rights, so it is Want to advertise here?
to include department store Robert Dyas on the list, something we pride ourselves on holding.
alongside Ocado, our independent stockists and Oxfam Having the Vegan Trademark gives our customers peace
stores across the country. of mind that we are following the requirements for your For advertising in The Vegan,
accreditation. Having the sunflower mark on our products is
an easy way for customers to know the formulations don’t
contact Wendy Kearns at:
What changes are you excited about?
include any animal byproducts and that we haven’t tested
We are always looking for new ways to give consumers
them on animals.
access to the Bio-D range, and innovating to create new advertising@vegansociety.com
products for them to enjoy. Product development is a huge
Visit vegansociety.com/trademark and biod.co.uk to learn
part of the business, and we’re continuously working on
more.
30 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Issue 3 2021 The Vegan | 31Volunteers
Jennifer Konsen Viktoria Toth
Volunteering as a proofreader I initially decided to apply
for The Vegan Society has for the proofreading
been such a great experience volunteer role as I wanted
so far. There are so many to contribute to a cause I
VOLUNTEER
different topics I learn about. believe in, and to implement
From newsletters to academic my newfound love for
research, no text is ever boring, writing in a new environment.
and it really helps me keep up to With each task, I meet and
HUB date with new vegan developments.
Even though I have been working
remotely, the communication with each person at The Vegan
Society has been so easy and everyone has been amazing to
exceed these goals. I always
learn something new, and I love the
variety of responsibilities I get to take on. I recently started
transcribing interviews, which has proven both interesting
work with. and useful for a university project that I am working on.
Kaya Gromocki I enjoy being able to support The Vegan Society by utilising Although I volunteer remotely, from Houston, Texas,
Volunteering and Engagement Officer my skills and I am happy that I can do so from my home in seeing my work’s impact through the gratitude of people
Scotland. I help has been invaluable this past year of isolation. I love
that I get to support The Vegan Society’s work no matter
where I am.
As Vegan Society staff continue
to work mainly from home, our Lee Hawkins
remote volunteering has also
After completing a doctorate in
continued to thrive. Tracie B
Pure Mathematics, I have spent
I am currently recruiting
my career in the IT industry, After leaving my job I wanted
for another remote role, a
specialising in software to make good use of some
Specialist Grants Advisor
testing. Volunteering with of the time I have available.
Volunteer. So far, I have been
The Vegan Society gives me a I passionately believe that
lucky enough to recruit Ritu, a
great opportunity to utilise my a fairer, kinder society is
volunteer who is supporting the
research, IT and other skills for possible and that by making
International Grants Programme
the benefit of a vegan organisation. information available and
(see page 6). The fact that I can
I’ve been a proofreading volunteer campaigning for good, we
find skilled volunteers for roles that require such specialised
for six months, in which time I’ve proofed short articles, blog really can change the world.
experience is an incredibly rewarding aspect of my job.
posts, The Vegan magazine and even a 40,000-word research Language is my ‘thing’, so when I
This statement could not be more fitting than when it
paper! I’m the first volunteer from Australia so it’s been a saw that The Vegan Society needed volunteer proofreaders I
comes to our proofreading volunteers, who have been a
challenge with time zones sometimes, but I’ve always found applied straight away.
true asset over the course of the pandemic. We currently
the organisation to be mindful of my location and considerate As a vegan and lifelong campaigner for animals, the
have 12 active proofreading volunteers who support us every
in terms of the amount of work being sent my way. role felt perfectly suited to me. Reading the documents
single day. These individuals improve the quality of our blogs,
Given the great experience I’ve had as a proofreading and articles is really interesting and I particularly enjoy
articles, newsletters, social media posts, website content and
volunteer, I’ve recently also taken on some web research transcribing interviews. Working to deadlines keeps me
this very magazine, ensuring that our written content is clear,
volunteer work to help improve The Vegan Society website. on my toes and I get to keep my skills current. I’ve always
consistent and accessible.
It’s awesome to work with even more of the dedicated Vegan believed that by helping others, we help ourselves –
Proofreading volunteers take on tasks ranging from 100
Society staff and other volunteers through this new work. volunteering has proven that to me.
to 45,000 words. For the first time in The Vegan Society’s
77-year history they are based right across the globe, from
Europe and Australia to the United States. They come from
a wide range of backgrounds, each bringing their own
specialist knowledge and interest to our work. When they are
not giving their time to us, they are science editors, attorneys,
teachers, software testers, translators, and business owners.
Many aspects of global and remote volunteering that might
be considered a hurdle have actually proven to be beneficial.
Tight deadlines, for example, can more easily be met if you
have a volunteer in a different time zone who can proofread
your article overnight, while a volunteer who is fluent in
multiple languages can translate and proofread copy.
The pandemic has undoubtedly been a tragedy, but more
than anything it has also taught us that as a charity we are
more capable and more adaptable than we knew, thanks in
part to those who support our work through volunteering.
32 | The Vegan Issue 3 2021 Issue 2021The
Issue332021 TheVegan
Vegan| |33
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